.png?table=block&id=218105a2-9d95-810a-a976-c30a97e0ed6d&cache=v2)
Last Edited Time
Jun 25, 2025 09:35 PM
Do not index
Do not index
Suggested Tag
Squarespace
domain management
dns management
Tags Synced
Tags Synced
AI summary
Connect your Namecheap domain to Squarespace using either Nameserver Connect for simplicity or DNS Connect for custom settings. Expect a 24-48 hour activation period and check DNS settings for progress. Troubleshoot connection issues by switching methods or resetting nameservers if necessary.
Last edited by
Platform
Category
Topic
How to Connect Your Namecheap Domain to Squarespace
Tags: Squarespace, Namecheap, Domain Setup, Website Building, DNS Management, Tech Tips
TL;DR: Key Points
- Use Nameserver Connect or DNS Connect to link your Namecheap domain to Squarespace
- Start with Namecheap's default nameservers before connecting
- Nameserver Connect is simpler, but DNS Connect is better for custom DNS settings
- The connection process usually takes 24-48 hours to activate
- Check your Squarespace DNS Settings for connection progress
- If problems persist after 72 hours, troubleshooting steps are available
Before You Start
Make sure your domain's default nameservers are active in Namecheap before you begin. This prevents error messages and gives you a stable starting point.
Check Squarespace's requirements for third-party domains first. If you're starting fresh with no custom email setup or special DNS needs, consider transferring your domain to Squarespace instead (it's simpler in the long run).
Two Ways to Connect Your Domain
Method 1: Nameserver Connect (Easier Option)
This hands over full DNS control to Squarespace. Choose this if you don't need custom email or other DNS records.
- Go to your Squarespace Domains panel and select 'Use a domain I own'
- Enter your domain name and click through
- Confirm no other Squarespace sites are using this domain (if prompted)
- Follow the 'Let's Connect Your Namecheap Domain' instructions
- When prompted, sign into Namecheap and update your nameservers to:
- connect1.squarespacedns.com
- connect2.squarespacedns.com
- Save your changes in Namecheap
- Return to Squarespace and complete the connection
Method 2: DNS Connect (For Custom DNS)
Use this if you need custom email, subdomains, or other DNS records that aren't website-related.
- In your Squarespace Domains panel, choose 'Use a domain I own'
- Enter your domain and proceed
- When asked about DNS records, select 'No, use DNS records'
- Sign into your Namecheap account when prompted
- Authorise the connection (Squarespace adds the DNS records automatically)
What Happens Next
Your domain takes 24-48 hours to fully connect. During this time:
- Check your DNS Settings in Squarespace regularly
- Look for green ticks showing successful connections
- Your site might be intermittently available (this is normal)
If nothing's working after 72 hours, try manually updating your DNS records or resetting the nameservers in Namecheap.
Pixelhaze Tip: Always check that no other Squarespace sites are using your domain. This conflict causes most connection failures and is easily missed.
Common Questions
What if I get an error while connecting?
Try switching methods. If you started with Nameserver Connect, try DNS Connect instead (or vice versa). If that doesn't work, you'll need to connect manually.
When will my domain start working?
Usually within 24-48 hours. You can track progress in your Squarespace DNS settings.
My domain still isn't working after three days. What now?
Reset your nameservers in Namecheap, then try the connection process again. Check Squarespace's troubleshooting guide for detailed steps.
Jargon Buster
- Nameserver: A server that tells browsers where to find your website
- DNS: The system that converts domain names (like yoursite.com) into IP addresses
- DNS Records: The instructions that tell different services where to find your website, email, etc.
- CNAME: A type of DNS record that points one domain to another
- A Records: DNS records that point your domain to a specific IP address
Final Thoughts
Connecting a Namecheap domain to Squarespace is straightforward once you know which method suits your needs. Nameserver Connect is simpler if you don't need custom DNS. DNS Connect gives you more control but requires more management.
The 24-48 hour wait is normal, so don't panic if things don't work immediately. Most connection issues come from conflicts with other sites or skipping the preparation steps, so double-check those first.